Cretaceous Period

The Cretaceous Period was the last period of the Mesozoic Era, spanning approximately 79 million years from about 145 to 66 million years ago. It is known for being the time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth, as well as for significant geological and biological events.

Geological Events

During the Cretaceous Period, the Earth's landmasses were still connected as the supercontinent Pangaea began to break apart. This resulted in the formation of the Atlantic Ocean and the gradual shaping of the continents into their current positions.

Biological Diversity

The Cretaceous Period was a time of great biological diversity. Dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, and Velociraptor thrived during this period. Additionally, flowering plants continued to diversify and spread, and new species of marine life flourished in the oceans.

Study Guide

1. What was the duration of the Cretaceous Period?
2. Which supercontinent began to break apart during the Cretaceous Period?
3. Name three well-known dinosaurs that lived during the Cretaceous Period.
4. What major geological event occurred during this period?
5. How did the biological diversity change during the Cretaceous Period?

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